“One of the genuine masterpieces of sci-fi.” R. D. Mullen. With the invention of the Karburator comes an abundant source of low-cost energy but also a dangerous byproduct. Known as the Absolute, it infects the world’s population with religious and nationalistic fervor that ignites a disastrous war. In this satirical and enduringly relevant work of science fiction, the acclaimed Czech author Karl ?apek offers a prescient fable of the benefits and dangers of atomic power.